Ryan Reynolds cast in live action Pokémon movie

Ryan Reynolds is taking the role of Pikachu in the movie.
Photo credit: Getty

Ryan Reynolds has signed on to play Pikachu in a new live-action Pokémon movie.

The Hollywood Reporter reports the Deadpool star has signed on to star in Legendary's upcoming live-action movie, Detective Pikachu, in the titular role.

IGN reports Reynolds had been one of several names reportedly being considered for the role alongside Hugh Jackman, Mark Wahlberg, and Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson.

Rob Letterman, of Shark Tale fame, will be reportedly directing the project, which is due to start filming in London early next year.

Starring alongside Reynolds will be Justice Smith, who will be seen in the upcoming Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, and Big Little Lies actress Kathryn Newton.

Detective Pikachu's plot will be based on a kidnapping, with Pikachu (Reynolds) assigned to hunt the offender down. Newton is reportedly playing a journalist aiding them along the way.

THR reports few other details are known about the plot at this time.

The new film will be based on the already-successful franchise, introduced with video games in Japan in 1996. The brand then launched player cards and a TV and movie series, becoming one of the most successful entertainment franchises in the world.